The 12th annual Stronger Together Women’s Conference was held on Thursday, April 28 at the Killam Community Hall.

FFCS Director Lynne Jenkinson acted as the day’s master of ceremonies. She noted that, despite low expectations, the event sold more tickets than it ever has before.

In the current economy, organizers budgeted for 55 attendees, and wound up selling an impressive 114 tickets.

The day featured multiple speakers, with Rosabelle Daugela kicking things off in the morning with her discussion of the Science of Happiness.

Daugela was followed by Brenda Robinson, who discussed the Challenge of Change.

Attendees were then treated to a meal catered by the Mad Platter Catering Company, and were able to visit the trade fair booths around the hall for some shopping.

Womens-Conference-May-3-16 — Miss Teen East Central Alberta, Teneille Lesmeister, discussed how the pageant has affected her life and increased her confidence.

The afternoon commenced with cracker barrel sessions, where participants had the opportunity to learn about different topics.

Each attendee was able to visit five different cracker barrels, spending 20 minutes at each. Topics ranged from meditation to home safety tips to up-cycling old furniture.

Following the cracker barrels, Daugela returned to give the final talk of the day, focusing on joy and laughter.

Miss Teen East Central Alberta, Teneille Lesmeister, gave a brief discussion about her pageant experience.

“I know there is a lot of stigma surrounding beauty pageants, but believe me, this one is different.”

Lesmeister discussed how the pageant has helped to boost her confidence, and has helped her to work on several skills, including public speaking.

She added that she aims to increase self confidence in other youth, and to become a role model to those around her.

She also noted that she is available to speak at other events, and is asking for donations. The funds will be spent on her trip to compete in the national competition, and the remainder will be donated to the Free the Children charity.

“We are all stronger together,” said Lesmeister.

Jenkinson ended the afternoon by distributing an assortment of door prizes, and reminding attendees that they are all beautiful, valuable, and worth it.